Interpretive Signs

The property was originally purchased from the Federal Government by Samual Shively on June 11, 1835. Within two years, Robert W. Chapman, a pioneer land speculator, acquired the land. Here, Chapman constructed the original house, a modest, two-story rectangular structure approximately 16 x 20-foot in size (640 sq ft). Like many pioneer speculators, Chapman suffered financial troubles in the early 1840’s, losing his property to foreclosure.

In 1839, John S. Hatch, 32, arrived from New York state. That same year, Sabrina Norton, 30, settled at Plainfield Township. They were married the following year, and purchased the Chapman house and farm in 1842. As the Hatch family grew and prospered, they enlarged the home to reflect their social status.

Located on both sides of the DuPage River, Electric Park was the ideal summer resort. It offered rental cottages, entertainment, dining, dancing, swimming and a mile of boating along the damned up river. The park was planned and developed by the Fisher Construction Company of Joliet as a unique destination for their streetcar line business which connected Joliet - Planfield - Aurora.